Whether it is a good warm up session before your workout or a cool down session after your workout, stretching machines can be of great assistance. If you usually face issues of tight muscles, muscle pulls, hamstrings and body stiffness then stretching becomes an important component of your daily regimen. Stretching machines show almost immediate improvement in posture and overall flexibility. While purchasing a stretching machine, it’s important you define your objectives clearly. Depending on your objective, there are 3 types of machine primarily available i.e. full body stretching machine, back stretching machine and leg stretching machine.
We have reviewed the top stretching machines of each category by objectively analyzing its frame, padding, design, cost and unique selling propositions.
Full Body Stretching Machines Review
Precor 240i Commercial Series StretchTrainer
Precor 240i Commercial Series StretchTrainer is one of the best-selling stretching machines in the market in 2017. There are 8 different stretching patterns you can try on this ergonomically designed trainer to target all your key muscle groups. The trainer comes with an instructional placard showing the 8 stretching patterns. By spending not more than 15 minutes a day you effectively improve your overall muscle flexibility and consequently your workout. It can also be effectively used for cool-down after your workout. The trainer has a premium steel frame with a powder coating that gives it a long life as it is rust resistant.
| Manufacturer | Precor |
| Price | $895 |
| Pros | Sleek design, 8 different stretching patterns, padded seat, 5 year warranty |
| Cons | High price, difficult to assemble |
| Final Verdict | Precor 240i is worth the investment if you are highly motivated to improve your flexibility and achieve better body posture. Rest assured you will never be disappointed with the quality of this equipment and Precor’s customer service. |
| Rating | 4.9/5 |
LifeSpan Fitness SP1000 Stretch Partner Stretching Machine
The LifeSpan Fitness SP1000 Stretch Partner is a solid full body stretching equipment with steel frame and a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs. The solid steel frame gives the equipment a longer life and also makes sure that the machine is stable while you stretch. The machine has a 5 year warranty on the frame and 1 year on parts. A lot of athletes involved in tennis and baseball especially find it useful for strengthening their lower back, getting relief from lower back pain and improving flexibility in their hamstrings and glutes. Golfers too use this piece of equipment to improve their swing motion range so that they can hit the ball further.
| Manufacturer | LifeSpan Fitness |
| Price | $496 |
| Pros | 5 year frame warranty, Multiple stretching program guide, Flex Pivot system for deeper stretches |
| Cons | Less padding on the seat |
| Final Verdict | The equipment is solid and durable. With features almost similar to the Precor 240i and cost a few hundred dollar lesser, it is a great buy. |
| Rating | 4.1/5 |
Leg Stretcher Review
Pro Leg Stretcher by TMAS
Pro Leg Stretcher is the best-selling leg stretching machine in the market in 2017. It is essentially useful for dancer and martial arts practitioners as it increases in the flexibility of the legs. If stretching your hamstrings and performing effective splits are important objectives for you then it makes sense to buy a leg stretcher machine over a full body stretcher as it costs way less. One of the best part of this equipment is that it is pre-assembled unlike most indoor equipment that require a good amount on time and effort invested in assembling. Even though the equipment is sturdy it only weighs 35 lbs.
| Manufacturer | TMAS |
| Price | $209 |
| Pros | Not expensive, rock solid body, adjustable back support, fully assembled |
| Cons | No warranty, uncomfortable upper leg padding |
| Final Verdict | If stretching your hamstrings and performing effective splits are important objectives for you then it makes sense to buy a leg stretcher machine over a full body stretcher as it costs way less. |
| Rating | 4.4/5 |
Century VersaFlex leg Stretch Machine
The Century VersaFlex leg Stretch Machine is an equipment that can be used for a stretch up to 190 degrees. The machine also has a degree indicator that helps you review your progress. This equipment is especially useful to martial arts practitioners where flexibility is an important aspect. Unlike the Pro Leg Stretcher, this machine uses a lever system to change and control the degree of stretch. The machine has a sturdy built and a sleek design.
| Manufacturer | Century |
| Price | $199 |
| Pros | Adjustable thick thigh pads, Stretch degree indicator to track progress, 4 position arm for extended stretch, Sturdy steel frame |
| Cons | Extremely difficult to assemble, Wear and tear of Ratchet lever over a period |
| Final Verdict | Overall Century Versaflex is a sturdy equipment with features that help you track your progress. . The machine has a sturdy built and a sleek design. The ratcheting lever used to control the degree of stretch is positioned well positioned which help in moving the legs apart gradually and smoothly. |
| Rating | 3.9/5 |
Back Stretching Machine Review
Ironman Gravity 4000:
Ironman Gravity 4000 is one of the highest rated inversion table in the market. It is a successor to Gravity 1000 and Gravity 2000. The table is made of powder-coated tubular steel frame and memory foam nylon backrest. The tubular steel frame helps it withstand maximum weight capacity of 350 lbs. A lot of users of this table have reported relief from slip disc symptoms and back pain. The table has ergonomically designed ankle cushions that help reduce the fatigue and discomfort you might experience. The lumbar pillow provides extra support to lower back.
| Manufacturer | Ironman Fitness |
| Price | $199 |
| Pros | Great price, most purchased table, ankle lock system, sturdy, lumbar pillow |
| Cons | Bulky, storage is an issue |
| Final verdict | Gravity 4000 is one of the best inversion table in the market. Many users have reported relief from symptoms of back pains and slip disc. It cost almost of half what its other contemporaries cost. |
| Rating | 4.7/5 |
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